Diego Simeone becomes a legend with Atletico Madrid record

MADRID: Diego Simeone set a new record as Atletico Madrid manager on Saturday when he took charge in his 613th game for the club against Sevilla in La Liga at the Metropolitano stadium . The 54-year-old Argentinian surpassed club legend Luis Aragones with 612 points and received a commemorative shirt from Aragones' son before kick-off, along with his own children. "Legend of Simeon" was read on the back of the shirt and on electronic screens around the stadium as Atlético fans chanted their coach's name in recognition of his exploits. Simeone, who played twice in midfield, took over as head coach in 2011. Known for his competitive and sometimes rugged style, Simeone helped Atlético win La Liga in 2014 and 2021 and the Copa del Rey in 2013.

The manager created a team capable of challenging giants Real Madrid and Barcelona for national honors in Atletico Madrid.

Before the Simeone era, they last won La Liga and Copa del Rey in 1996, when they scored a domestic double under coach Radomir Antic. Simeone also led Atlético to the 2014 and 2016 Champions League finals, but his side ware defeated in both games against fierce rivals Real Madrid. led the club to Europa League triumphs and two European Super Cups in 2012 and 2018. Atletico have failed this season by missing out on the title race and exiting the Champions League group stage, with speculation Simeone's reign could end this summer.